What we’re about
This group is for people that like to have fun and adventure in the great outdoors; hiking in the foothills and mountains, camping, funyaking on the French Broad, whitewater rafting on the Nolichucky, biking the Virginia Creeper, outdoor live music, backpacking, spelunking and more. The hikes I lead will be rated either "Moderate", "Difficult" or "Strenuous" and most are what I would call aerobic hiking, but with lots of short stops to appreciate what Mother Nature has to show us! I'm open to others leading easier hikes and making suggestions. An example of "Moderate" would be the Lake Norman State Park "Lake Shore Trail" with one rest/food stop in the middle and some short water breaks etc. I've had several Red Cross first aid courses over the years, including the outdoor trauma course. JOIN US FOR SOME FUN!
If you have an idea then post it or send me a message!
BREAKING RULES WILL GET YOU THROWN OUT:
1. No discussing or wearing of anything political or governmental will be tolerated
2. No physical of mental abuse will be tolerated
3. No showing multiple times - please cancel at least 1 hour before the meet time
4. No activity for 6 months
Upcoming events
2
Blowing Rock's Winterfest 2026!
Blowing Rock, NC, USMAKE PLANS NOW! https://blowingrockwinterfest.com/
This is a I'll give you lots of info including good parking and hang out spots, and tell you what I'm doing and when for events. They'll be lots of people going so grab some friends and come have some fun!
I'm starting at the Museum at 159 Ginny Stevens Lane, Blowing Rock - meet inside at 10 AM. It's free and they have new displays every year. There's a short video about the history of Blowing Rock near the front desk that's worth watching.
Blowing Rock is an awesome town, I've been going there since the 70's. You'll see things in the shops downtown that you won't see anywhere else, and there are lots of good restaurants and hiking trails.
If You Plan To Spend The Night Make Reservations NOW!
Lodging Packages 2026: https://blowingrockwinterfest.com/lodging/
Polar Bear Plunge at Chetola Lake
WHO'S DOING THE POLOR PLUNGE THIS YEAR?
The Polar Bear Plunge at Chetola Resort & Spa is guaranteed to be a chillingly good time. Plunge as an individual or with a team and dress up in costume for a chance to win the famous “Golden Plunger Award.” Online registration closes Thursday, January 22 at 5PM.
Warm up with hot chocolate, coffee, and spirits while sitting by fire pits around Chetola Lake, with the smell of BBQ cooking.
Location: Chetola Resort, 185 Chetola Lake Dr, Blowing Rock, NC 28605
800.243.8652
Plunge Time: 10AM
This event is free for spectators, and TBD to plunge which includes a commemorative item! Be sure to bring a TOWEL and BLANKET for when you exit the lake!!
https://blowingrockwinterfest.com/event/polar-plunge-chetola-resort/
Rotary Chilly Chili Challenge
THIS IS A CHARITY EVEN THAT I HOPE EVERYONE GOES TO! $10 each
This year the Rotary Chilly Chili Challenge is taking place at the Blowing Rock School Gym! Bring some $1 bills to tip your favorite chilies with.
Get Youir Tickets Now!
https://blowingrockwinterfest.com/event/rotary-chilly-chili-challenge-limited-tickets-available-at-door/
# Artisan Ice Stroll
Stroll through Blowing Rock and see all the gorgeous ice sculptures! Artisan Ice Sculptures is one of only five Master Ice Carvers in the United States. Ice sculptures will be on display in front of businesses in town. Creativity abounds with our sculptures! Spend some time in the shops and businesses while you enjoy the stroll.
# WinterFest Beer Garden
This is a individual choice pay up front event, you should make sure to attend with at least one friend!
RESISTER HERE: It Will Sell Out
https://blowingrockwinterfest.com/cart/?add-to-cart=14873
Relax and toast to the season at the WinterFest Beer Garden , featuring local craft beers, tasty bites, and a festive winter atmosphere. Guests can mingle with friends, enjoy live entertainment, and celebrate the spirit of the season in a fun, community-focused setting.
Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026 Time: 1 pm – 4 pm Location: The Speckled Trout parking lot Join us for this popular WinterFest tradition and raise a glass to the High Country!
* Must be 21 or older with picture ID to sample beer.
Make reservations ahead of time if you want to stay for dinner.
Blowing Rock Restaurants:https://blowingrock.com/dining/
2026 Website: https://blowingrockwinterfest.com/
Click on the website for more info
## Festival of Lights at Chetola ...
Close to 30,000 illuminations light up the lakeside at Chetola...
## Hot Chocolate & Hayrides
Bring the family to grab a cup of cheer and take hayride...
For those that want to, we're meeting inside the Blowing Rock Museum at 10 AM
I'll add parking and places to hang out info also!4 attendees
Past events
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